This work is the property of the Tennessee State Library and Archives, Nashville, TN. It may be used freely by individuals for research, teaching, and personal use as long as this statement of availability is included in the text. For all other use contact the Tennessee State Library and Archives, 403 Seventh Avenue North, Nashville, TN 37243-0312. (615) 741-2764.

Date:

June 30, 1846

Extent:

2p

Summary:

This is a letter dated June 30, 1846 from William Blakemore, the coroner of Weakley County, Tennessee, to Governor Aaron V. Brown in Nashville. In the letter, Blakemore describes a brutal murder committed by William Dunn, who has since fled the county, and he requests the governors assistance in his apprehension.

On the 24th inst [instant], a most cruel and brutal murder was committed in this ( Weakley Co [County] ) by William Dunn on the body of Benjamin M Travis __ the particulars are briefly these__Dunn (in company with a third person) met Travis (aged about 20) in a neighborhood road, and in a very friendly manner requested Travis to drink with him, which the latter did__ Dunn again insisted that Travis would take another drink, which the latter proceeded to do, when Dunn, immediately announced his interests on to whip Travis__ Travis had set a [unclear: gun ] by the side of a tree, which he happened to have with him__ which Dunn seized and broke Travis' skull, and otherwise brutally mangled him__ Dunn then cut his throat__ and mounted his horse and fled. These are the facts, as found at the inquest. Previous malice was also proved. the jury of inquest returned a verdict of murder__ Dunn has fled the county, and as the relatives of the deceased are poor; it is respectfully submitted whether a [unclear: reward ] should not be offered by your Excellency for Dunns, apprehension.

Said William Dunn is about 28 years of age, 5 feet, 9 or 10 inches in height heavy built weighs about 175 pounds. has a round face and a smiling countenance, light hair, gray or hazel eyes, swarthy complexion__ talks and laughs freely, and is very profane